New York Cares Helps Others

You're welcome. It would be good to know of places where you can volunteer. Not only would it be good to volunteer, but the places that use volunteers offer good things for others.

You can apply to be a team leader on several projects, and I think I might just do that over spring...

Yes, Uraniumfish. I volunteered once. And although I did not get paid for it, I felt good inside that I was doing something worthy for and helping other people.

Raking leaves in one of the city parks is another way to volunteer that's easy and easily accessible. It's perhaps less emotionally taxing, for better of for worse, than working in a food bank, etc., but can be a great way for those who might not otherwise find an avenue for volunteering to get fit while adding something to the community, even if it is just a bit of help among the greenery.

@ajadedidealist You just described my idea of volunteer work - I am looking forward to doing some gardening in the community garden, if only winter would hurry up and leave.

Back when it was warmish, I happened on a little strip of a community garden at Houston and Bowery and ate my lunch there several times. I loved how much care had obviously been put into that little place, and it was wonderful to sit there for a few minutes and enjoy it.

Summer is the time when everything opens and most everyone gets out. I know I feel great when summer comes. I'll be able to help others when it does get warmer.

A friend of mine does a lot with New York Cares. He's one of those people always into a good cause.

Another volunteer opportunity is getting involved with a mentoring program, like Big Brothers/Sisters - a great way to make a one-on-one difference

I did a mentoring program a few years ago, ajadedidealist, and really enjoyed it. I worked the program until my own work got overwhelming and I had to stop working in the program. But when I did the work of volunteering, I felt great. I knew I was helping someone.